Peckham Fringe is currently running until June 5th, 2026. As with all fringe festivals, experimental work and thought-provoking productions are often performed during a fringe. Plays that are often based on experiences or true life situations and leave audiences with questions that require more research and understanding.
Republic of Silence is one of those hard-hitting plays based on true life events that rocked both Ireland and the Catholic Church when the truth about what took place inside the walls of Sean Ross Abbey was eventually exposed.
The story of these young unmarried girls has been shrouded in secrecy to protect the evil people who were in charge st Sean Ross. Over a thousand babies have never been accounted for. They were either killed or adopted without the mothers consent. Many of which went to America.
The play is divided between the past and the present. As construction work begins, one of the workers discovers to his horror a massive grave and pushes to try and get an official enquiry and excavation in place. Although the boss wants to push forward without one and continue with the appalling cover up.
The past is two young expectant mothers/girls who are afraid and alone working inside the washing room of Sean Ross. The cruelty and fear they both share is heart-wrenching.
The discovery of Sean Ross is still quite fresh in the history books, and families affected are still alive with more stories materialising as these events are discussed.
The play is thought-provoking and uncomfortable at times. These young girls suffered extreme cruelty at the hands of the Nuns, and the truth deserves to be exposed. So many babies lost that they deserved to be remembered, and their story told. Republic of Silence needs to be developed and continue being performed.
For more information about Republic of Silence and future productions at Theatre Peckham, please use the link below.
Four Stars.
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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